Smoky Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles
Quick-cooked shrimp infused with garlic and smoked paprika, tossed with zucchini noodles for a refreshing, no-carb pasta alternative. This mediterranean-inspired seafood (low-carb, pescatarian) ready in about 25 minutes pairs peeled and deveined Shrimp, medium Zucchini, Olive oil for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 2, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 12 oz, peeled and deveined Shrimp
- 2 medium Zucchini
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 3 cloves Garlic
- 1/2 tsp Smoked paprika
- 1 Lemon
- 1/2 tsp Salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Trim ends from 2 medium zucchini. Spiralize into noodles using a spiralizer or julienne peeler, then pat dry with paper towels.
- Step 2: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Step 3: Add 12 oz shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Step 4: Add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil to skillet, then add 3 minced garlic cloves and 1/2 tsp smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute until garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Step 5: Add zucchini noodles to skillet and toss for 2-3 minutes until just tender but still crisp, stirring frequently.
- Step 6: Return shrimp to skillet, squeeze juice from 1/2 lemon over the top, and add 1/2 tsp salt. Toss gently for 1 minute until flavors meld.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Smoky Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles take to make?
Total time is about 25 minutes (15 min prep + 10 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.
How do I store leftover Smoky Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles?
Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep peeled and deveined shrimp from drying out.
Can I substitute ingredients in Smoky Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Smoky Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
Is Smoky Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles low-carb?
Yes — this recipe is tagged low-carb based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
What others are saying
- ★★★★☆
My family liked it. I personally would prefer more depth of flavor.
- ★★★★☆
Reliable weeknight option. Not going to blow your mind but always satisfying.
- ★★★☆☆
Decent recipe but nothing special. Might try a different version.
